Photo credit: Aaron Lingenfelter.
There’s nothing Metro Detroiters love more than live, outdoor concerts in the summertime. Despite the immense challenges facing concerts throughout the country, these Metro Detroit stages have found ways to keep the music playing in a safe, outdoor environment.
Green Beat
On April 25, Green Beat – a new Brush Street café – will present Dixon’s Violin. Known for three TED Talks performances, appearances at Electric Forest and ten years at burning man, Dixon redefines the limits of his instrument. Attendees are encouraged to provide their own blankets and lawn chairs for an unforgettable night of live music in the city.
Riverside Station
Beginning May 7, Detroit’s newest outdoor music venue will present major artists in a COVID-safe environment. Located along the riverfront, just steps from the former Joe Louis Arena, Riverside Station provides pod-style viewing allowing up to six people to enjoy the show while socially distancing from other groups. First up on their schedule – Mt. Joy featuring local opener, Michigander.
Marble Bar
Known for its epic, late-night dance parties, Marble Bar has adapted to the times, opening up its outdoor patio for DJ sets. While nothing can replace the feeling of a packed dance floor, Detroiters are grateful to once again share in a community space where they can safely enjoy the sounds of Detroit’s up-and-coming electronic artists and DJs.
Tin Roof Detroit
Located just a short toss from Comerica Park, Tin Roof Detroit offers multiple floors of dining, drinking and music, complete with a rooftop patio equipped with its own stage. The post-game hotspot features live music almost nightly from local singer-songwriters, rock bands and a weekly karaoke night. It’s the perfect place to meet before heading to the game as well as come back to after a big win.
DTE Energy Theatre
Formerly known as Pine Knob, DTE Energy Theatre will resume large-scale, outdoor productions this summer. With plenty of room for spacious seating plus a rear lawn perfect for spreading out with lawn chairs and blankets, these are the shows that define summer in Michigan. First up on the list, the Dave Matthews Band returns for their annual romp on the DTE stage June 22. Just a week later, Earth Wind and Fire joins Santana for a night of high-energy throwbacks.
Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre
The Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre at Freedom Hill will once again hold host to live music this summer. While slightly smaller than DTE, this venue consistently fills the bill with major touring artists drawing music-lovers statewide. The season will open for outdoor concerts on June 6 with a performance by 5 Seconds of Summer and follow up with concerts from Blackberry Smoke, the Goo Goo Dolls, Alicia Keys and John Legend at the Metro Detroit venue.
